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How to Make Arroz con Leche: A Traditional and Creamy Rice Pudding Recipe

Arroz con leche, or Spanish rice pudding, is a creamy, sweet, and comforting dessert loved across Latin America, Spain, and even parts of the U.S. With its rich flavor, warm spices, and velvety texture, arroz con leche is a nostalgic dish that reminds many of home and family traditions.

In this article, you'll learn how to make a traditional arroz con leche recipe, including preparation tips, ingredient substitutions, and popular variations. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or just craving something cozy, this step-by-step guide will help you master this timeless dish in 2025 and beyond.

📝 What is Arroz con Leche?

Arroz con leche literally means “rice with milk.” It’s a sweet rice pudding made with simple ingredients like white rice, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla. Some cultures add condensed milk, citrus zest, or raisins for extra flavor.

This dish can be served warm or chilled, and it’s popular as a dessert or a breakfast treat.

🧂 Ingredients for Traditional Arroz con Leche

Here’s what you’ll need for a basic recipe (serves 4–6 people):

• 1 cup white rice (preferably medium or short grain)
• 4 cups whole milk (or substitute with almond/oat milk for dairy-free)
• 1 cup water
• 1 cinnamon stick (or 1 tsp ground cinnamon)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon or orange (optional)
• 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk (optional, for creaminess)
• 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
• Ground cinnamon for garnish

🍚 How to Make Arroz con Leche: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Rinse the Rice
Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch. This helps prevent the pudding from becoming too thick or gummy.

Step 2: Boil Rice with Water and Cinnamon
In a medium pot, combine rice, water, cinnamon stick, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the water is mostly absorbed.

Step 3: Add Milk and Cook Slowly
Add the milk (and zest if using) to the pot. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Simmer gently for 20–25 minutes until the rice is tender and the mixture thickens.

Step 4: Add Sugar and Condensed Milk
Stir in the sugar, vanilla extract, and condensed milk (if using). Cook for another 5–10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the pudding is creamy and thick.

Step 5: Add Raisins (Optional)
Add raisins in the last 5 minutes of cooking if desired.

Step 6: Serve
Remove the cinnamon stick, let cool slightly, and serve warm or refrigerate and enjoy cold. Sprinkle with ground cinnamon before serving.

🔄 Arroz con Leche Variations

• Vegan Arroz con Leche: Use plant-based milk like almond, oat, or coconut. Replace condensed milk with a splash of maple syrup or coconut cream.
• Mexican Style: Add evaporated milk and sweetened condensed milk for extra richness.
• Spanish Style: Often includes lemon or orange zest and may be less sweet.
• Puerto Rican Style: Some add coconut milk and a pinch of nutmeg.

💡 Tips for Perfect Arroz con Leche

• Low and slow: Keep the heat low to avoid scorching the milk.
• Stir often: This prevents rice from sticking and helps achieve a creamy texture.
• Use whole milk: For best results, use full-fat milk or a combination of milk and cream.
• Don’t rush it: The pudding thickens as it cooks and even more after it cools.

🥣 How to Serve and Store

• Serve warm for a cozy dessert or chilled for a refreshing treat.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days.
• Add a splash of milk when reheating to loosen the texture.

🌟 Nutritional Info (Per Serving Estimate)

• Calories: 300–350
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 8g
• Sugar: 25g

Note: Values may vary depending on added ingredients like condensed milk or raisins.

📌 Final Thoughts

Arroz con leche is more than a dessert—it's a culinary hug from generations past. With just a handful of pantry staples and a little patience, you can enjoy this creamy, comforting dish any time of year. Whether you're honoring tradition or trying something new, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.